Fujian Province in China, November 5-6, 2024 -Capitalizing on a recently signed partnership with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), the Mekong Institute (MI) co-hosted a “High-Level Forum on Zero Carbon Energy Development in Asia” that explored solutions and strengthened partnerships toward the Lancang-Mekong region’s transition to a zero-carbon future. Held from November 5 to 6, 2024, in Ningde, Fujian Province in China, with the support of the Chinese government, the event brought together delegates from the region’s energy ministries, power utilities, development partners, and other stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the Ningde Municipal Government, Mr. Liang Weixin, Secretary of the CPC Ningde Municipal Committee, warmly welcomed the forum participants before discussing Ningde’s potential and achievements as a leading green and low-carbon model city. “With a carbon-conscious future as our vision, we are setting the stage for low-carbon applications to flourish. Zero-carbon is not just a concept but an action, which only shows its true value through real-life applications,” said Mr. Liang as he enumerated key industries and research and production activities in the city that blaze the trail in low-carbon energy and technology development.
CATL Founder and Chairman, Dr. Robin Zeng, urged MI and Lancang-Mekong governments represented at the forum to prioritize policies that support zero-carbon goals while ensuring the transition is economically beneficial for all, including businesses and investors. “Global climate change is one of the most significant challenges we face today, and zero-carbon development and energy transition have become imperative. We see that Southeast Asian countries are setting carbon reduction goals and rolling out relevant policies. Many questions now revolve around the feasibility of profitability during the zero-carbon transition.”
MI Executive Director Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, in his remarks, stressed that implementing policies and achieving zero-carbon goals require commitment and strong partnerships. “To support this vision, MI has established strategic partnerships with energy ministries, utility agencies, and leading private companies like CATL, driving energy transition through renewable energy, smart grids, mass storage solutions, and regional power market development.”
Mr. Suriyan also noted that amid rising demand for energy in urban areas, industrial parks, and data centers, the region also needs to ensure that energy development and distribution are inclusive and eco-friendly. “Socially, we must ensure energy is distributed to rural communities, supporting their access to employment, education, and public health services. Environmentally, the region aims for a future-proof, zero-carbon approach to power its progress without compromising our resources.”
The forum is a component of the “Catalyzing Energy Transition towards Low Carbon Development in the Lancang-Mekong Region” project. Discussions spotlighted various issues and opportunities surrounding energy transition, such as market penetration of electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage solutions, and battery recycling programs, among others. It also featured a learning visit to CATL’s exhibition hall and JC production base, where delegates gained insights into world-class energy development and battery cell production.
Ms. Tina Wang, Program Manager at MI’s Sustainable Energy and Environment (SEE) Department, expressed gratitude to partners and delegates for making the high-level event productive and successful. She emphasized that having a vision for the transition gives hope for the future despite current limitations in regional infrastructure, policies, and technologies. “Looking ahead, the commitments and strategies discussed here provide a strong starting point for the region’s shift to cleaner energy… we now have a clearer vision and the knowledge to continue building on this foundation.”
Dr. Anthony Hu, Executive Vice President of the Zero Carbon Energy Business Division at CATL, emphasized in his closing remarks, that the gathering served as a strong foundation for lasting partnerships and innovative solutions as stakeholders collectively pursue zero-carbon development across Asia. He expressed CATL’s readiness to be the best partner in strategy planning, business operation, and technical innovation for local government and enterprises, continuously contributing to regional zero-carbon and sustainable development.
